Here at Inszone, one of our missions is to make sure that every employee is appreciated, acknowledged, and recognized for their achievements. This Employee Spotlight series aims to celebrate success and highlight the talented individuals we have at Inszone. This month, please join us in congratulating Deena Evancik, our Employee Spotlight for the month of July!
Deena Evancik is a Senior Commercial Lines Account Manager at Inszone Insurance Services, joining Inszone in July 2021 after the merger with Strachota Insurance Agency, Inc. An insurance veteran by trade, she began her career as a File Clerk, working her way to Receptionist, Customer Service Representative, and Account Manager. Deena has over two decades of experience specializing in all aspects of the commercial insurance industry. Her experience in the commercial insurance field has given her invaluable skills necessary to handle any task placed in front of her, and her goal is to obtain the best possible coverage at the lowest attainable price for her clients.
When asked to share some words about Deena, Richard Choe, who is Inszone’s Business Unit Manager and Deena’s direct supervisor, said, “I’ve had the privilege and pleasure of working with Deena for almost two years now. When I think of Deena, I always have a smile on my face because she approaches her profession in a positive manner and always brings her can-do attitude to each situation. She’s solution-oriented, thinking of ways to finish a task in the most efficient way possible. For our team, she’s a key piece of the foundation as she’s always there to lean on when needed. Thank you for all the sacrifice and hard work that you put in Deena!”
To get to know more about Deena, we asked her a couple of questions about her and her time in the insurance world:
Q: Tell us about your start in the insurance industry?
A: At the young age of 16, I received an unexpected call from Strachota Insurance. They offered me a chance to dive headfirst into the industry as a file clerk. Back then, paper files ruled the roost, and the role of a file clerk was paramount to maintaining order. Without hesitation, I eagerly embraced the opportunity and embarked on my journey in the insurance realm. As time went on, I transitioned to the receptionist’s post, dabbled in commercial customer service, and eventually found my footing as an account manager. But that wasn’t the end of my story. I craved more. So, I delved into the realm of production, honing my skills and knowledge from the ground up. A true jack of all trades, I reveled in every position I held, savoring the wealth of experience and expertise I gained along the way.
Q: What qualities do you have that make you a “great” insurance agent?
A: I am truly passionate about insurance. I fight hard for our clients to ensure the best possible coverage for the lowest rate. I enjoy disputing audits and turning them around in the customer’s favor. I get excited about learning something new or finding a new hot market. I truly love what I do and that translates when working with our clients, underwriters, and partners.
Q: How did you come to the conclusion that the insurance industry is a good fit for you?
A: When I first entered the industry, it felt like second nature to me. I never felt the need to venture outside of the insurance industry. It was as if I had stumbled upon my destined place without even realizing it. The serendipity of starting so early in the field was a true blessing, and my intuition immediately recognized the passion that ignited within me. I had discovered my purpose, and there was no doubt in my mind that this was what I was meant to pursue wholeheartedly.
Q: If you could sit down with your younger self, what is one piece of advice you would share?
A: Patience is a virtue. Steady the course and all your dreams will come true.
Q: What’s something you do outside of work that would surprise your co-workers and clients?
A: Amusement parks have always held a special allure for me. There’s something exhilarating about the rush of adrenaline that comes with riding roller coasters, the kind that tower high above, pushing the limits of speed and excitement. Among all the parks, Magic Mountain stands out as my ultimate favorite. It holds cherished memories of my childhood, where my mom would whisk my siblings, friends, and I away on countless adventures there. Those experiences have etched a special place in my heart that will forever remain vibrant and unforgettable.
Q: What interests you in a career at Inszone?
A: After Strachota’s acquisition in July 2021, my curiosity got the best of me, and I couldn’t resist delving into the world of Inszone. As I immersed myself in its essence, that familiar sense of knowingness washed over me again, reminiscent of the day I first entered the insurance industry. It’s a feeling that I’ve come to trust implicitly—an unwavering certainty that this is precisely where I’m meant to be. The realm of Inszone presents boundless opportunities, complemented by an unrivaled efficiency that leaves me in awe. As a proud member of this remarkable team, I’ve found a new sense of purpose, a place to plant my roots and build a lasting career. I am not just an employee, but a “lifer” dedicated to the journey ahead.
Q: What quote keeps you inspired in your day-to-day life?
A: “Win-win is a no-lose opportunity”, “Love your family, work hard through value, live your passion”, and “Proverbs 5:6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your path straight.”
Your efforts and dedication have not gone unnoticed. We appreciate your hard work. Keep up the good work! Again, congratulations, Deena!